Japanese Blueberry Tree

All You Need to Know About the Japanese Blueberry Tree

The Japanese blueberry tree is technically known as Elaeocarpus decipiens. These trees are definitely unique in terms of appearance, since they produce tiny white flowers. This evergreen tree will be explored in detail throughout this article to give the reader a better understand of its general characteristics.

The Japanese blueberry tree can range anywhere from thirty to fifty feet in height and be as wide as forty feet. When first producing foliage, it appears extremely hairy; however, as soon as the leaves mature they turn into the brighter green that one would expect. The blueberry tree is actually an evergreen, making it a beautiful addition to your yard year around. Furthermore, this tree produces very small, but yet scented flowers during the summer months. These flowers tend to be in clusters and white in terms of color. After the flowers sprout, the bluish-black berries then come into view.

It is recommended that you plant these trees in hardiness zones ranging from 8b to eleven. Although they may be able to survive in zones right outside of this range, the likelihood of successful, speedy growth is highly unlikely. In terms of soil, it needs to be very well drained, specifically with a pH balance between 6.6 to 7.8 (preferring something neutral or slightly alkaline in nature). Make sure the tree is placed within full sun or in partial shade; this tree thrives off of the sun and requires very little pruning.

As with most trees and flowers, watering is extremely important. It is essential that you avoid over-watering the plants, but be sure to provide a consistent watering cycle until maturation. As mentioned above, this requires that you take the necessary steps to ensure that the area surrounds the tree allows for proper drainage. Here is a helpful hint: if the soil is dry three inches down from the surface, it is time for watering. It is recommended that you use good fertilizer during the beginning of the spring to assist with proper growth. Also note that this plant may attract a variety of different species. Specifically, bees and butterflies are common invaders, with birds being infrequent visitors as well.

Most people agree that the Japanese blueberry tree makes a great little hedge. Better yet, the fruit that the tree produces will not stain the sidewalk if used near the driveway or walk area. These plants appear relatively tropical next to your typical trees. One interesting fact is that this plant is native to the country of New Zealand. Better yet, those native to the country will often pick these fruits and use them as we would use olives. Most people prefer not planting this tree from a seed since it can take up to two years before it begins to grow. However, it may be a bit difficult for one to find the tree in their local nursery. According to those who use this plant for a variety of reasons, including hiding fountain beds, the search is worth the prize of having this plant added to your landscape.

In conclusion, these trees are ideal for suburbs as well as providing a nice green foliage backdrop to your gardens. The small and discreet flowers make this tree quite unique, not to mention the bluish-black berries that follow the blooming of these flowers. Furthermore, the Japanese blueberry tree is relatively easy to care for after a routine of watering until maturity. Anyone wishing to obtain a new hedge to add to his or her lawn should definitely consider this foreign plant. The only difficult task associated with this tree is actually finding it to purchase.